The ALCTS Catalog Form & Function Interest Group explores the evolving nature of the library catalog and its relationship to the fundamental mission and expanding services of libraries.

In his Library Journal article, “Automation Marketplace 2013: the Rush to Innovate”, Marshall Breeding states “the emergence of a new genre of library services platforms that comprehensively manage library resources across all formats, based on service-oriented architecture with web-based interfaces designed for deployment through SaaS, stands to reshape the industry over the next decade.” Notably missing from these new library services platforms [e.g. OCLC WorldShare, Alma, Kuali OLE, Intota] is the traditional OPAC library catalog, instead relying on discovery service platforms or interface layers [i.e. WorldCat Local, Primo, Summon, Vufind, etc.] for search of library holdings and other content. Other libraries, still on traditional ILS platforms, are choosing to ‘hide’ their native ILS OPAC in deference to the new discovery layers.

Join us this Saturday to hear from two libraries who have entered this brave new post-OPAC world. Dave Patten, Library Systems Manager at the University of Huddersfield,UK, will discuss his library’s project to hide their OPAC and use Summon as their primary discovery tool. Roger Brisson, Head of Metadata Services at Boston University, will share BU’s experience migrating to the Ex Libris Alma platform and Primo.

Join us for a lively discussion, followed by Q&A, and a brief business meeting. We are currently looking to identify an individual or individuals interested in serving as Vice-Chair for the Interest Group. Please contact Cheryl Gowing [cgowing@miami.edu] if you might be interested in leading the group.